Homeowners advised to check their property before winter sets in

Andy Dawson, Operations Director at Legal & General’s general insurance business said: “Household insurance is designed to provide peace of mind so homeowners know that their property is protected from the ravages of winter.

But Legal & General also recognise that customers don’t want any additional stress if they should need to claim. Following the practical advice we have outlined may help customers to reduce the risk of having to make a claim in the first place and minimising the amount of disruption experienced if they do.

With the average house in England and Wales now costing more than £200,000 it makes sense to check the upkeep of our homes, ahead of the assault from the elements properties are likely to face over the next few months. The Met office forecast for winter predicts a possible increase in the frequency of cold snaps and also has figures which show that historically December is one of the wettest months of the year.

Our homes are probably the most valuable financial asset we own and regular maintenance will help to ensure that a property reflects its true market value. It is also important to understand that household insurance is not a maintenance contract. Insurance will cover damage caused by certain bad weather conditions, which are outlined in the policy wording such as storm, flood and an escape of water from a frozen pipe. Household insurance may also provide cover for instances such as bad weather causing a falling tree or falling TV aerial to damage the property. But the property must be kept in a good state of repair.

Our aim is to make the process of claiming as smooth and stress free as we can, which then means homeowners who suffer weather related emergencies are back into their own homes as soon as they possibly could be.

Customers should take reasonable steps to safeguard their property and contents against loss or damage - this includes ensuring that their property is maintained in a good condition.”

In advance of the bad weather and to help minimise the damage and disruption that can be caused, Legal & General offers the following advice: General Homeowner Checklist

Freezing conditions:

Check house heating is in good working order, and if you have one, whether the chimney should be swept.
Check loft insulation is thick enough and still in good condition.
Check all pipes and tanks, which may be liable to freeze, are fully lagged.
Repair any dripping taps.
If you are away overnight, leave the heating on just in case the temperature should drop.

Storms:

Check drains and gutters are clear of any leaves or debris that could block them.
Repair loose roof tiles and slates to reduce the risk of them falling off.
Secure loose items such as garden furniture, tools, toys and pots. Ensure planters are stowed away if possible or firmly fixed so they can’t be blown around and cause damage.
Check windows and window frames, including those in a shed, garage or greenhouse to ensure they are firmly fixed and with no possible gaps for rain to penetrate.
Check whether trees particularly those close to the house, need pruning and are stable.

Flooding:

Prepare an emergency kit of some food, drink, warm clothing and a first aid kit plus any regular medication. Include a torch and battery radio, but check the batteries still work, or invest in wind-up options and as back-up have candles and matches available.
Check you know where water, gas and electricity supply can be turned off. If unsure check with your supplier. You may wish to consider back-up heating options
Where possible, move any personal possessions, furniture and valuables that can be moved to safety.
Sandbags or floorboards could be used to block air bricks and doorways.

If you should suffer damage, then it will help when making a claim to have made a note of the emergency or claim helpline number you need to call, or your insurer’s web site address.

You will need to give your policy number, postcode and details of the damage. In many cases you may not need to complete a claim form as this can be done over the phone.

Buildings Insurance will cover damage to the structure of a home, domestic outbuildings, paved terraces, drives and paths caused by flood and storm but will not cover damage caused by heavy rain or high winds. Fences and gates damaged in a storm are not normally covered.

Home Contents Insurance covers damage to household items, which are not part of the buildings. For example, furniture, TVs, radios, stereos and personal items damaged by flood water.